Editor,
The idea of a run-of-river power project at Skookum Creek has considerable merit if the piggyback benefit of having the road maintained that far into the Mamquam Valley is factored into the equation ["Two power projects proposed," The Chief, April 6].
As with a massive number of other public benefits that have been made possible through amenity agreements with developers, the upgrade and maintenance of that road could provide many opportunities for further commerce in that area and go a long way toward stimulating a tourism industry here.
The idea of creating construction jobs for a couple of years also needs to be considered as it is the construction sector that has provided most of the prosperity in this region over the past decade.
The condition of the road, formerly known as the MacBlo Main, has deteriorated considerably since logging has declined in the area, and this limits access to the considerable natural wealth that the Upper Mamquam Valley has to offer.
That wealth can be capitalized upon by making it accessible to businesses and their paying guests.
If the road is maintained and utilities like power and phone lines established in the area, this could provide a much needed stimulus for the development of recreation businesses like the many found in Whistler's hinterlands.
Without this leg-up, the costs of infrastructure are too prohibitive for entrepreneurs to consider and they take their money and ideas elsewhere.
The area of the proposal is now, exactly like Brohm Ridge, a logged-off industrial tree farm whose original wilderness values have been long ago drastically compromised.
In fact, at the time, the clearcutting that took place up to the Garibaldi Park boundary in the headwaters of Skookum Creek was widely criticized for its lack of vision and negative visual impact.
As we look up the Mamquam Valley today we can still clearly see the old-school cut blocks above Skookum Creek over 20 years later.
An IPP in that location will provide a win-win scenario for all sides and needs our support.
For once, let's get behind a good idea that will provide lasting benefits for Squamish.
Ross D. Smith
Garibaldi Estates
